This is a great spring, summer and fall hike that parallels the creek most of the way. The trail departs and immediately begins a steep climb for about 1/4 mile ,the trail then splits left for the Deluge creek trail or continue right for the Gore Creek trail and a sign for the Eagles Nest wilderness area. Beyond this sign you may disperse camp but keep in mind to set up camp at least 150ft from any creek, lake or water source.

From here on the trail levels out and parallels the creek with great views of the Gore Range and sometimes great views back South towards East Vail. At about 4.2 miles there is a turnoff to start hiking up a steep gulch to Gore Lake or you can continue on to link up with the CDT at Red Buffalo pass or Eccles Pass. If you continue up to Red Buffalo Pass you can expect an abundance of wildflowers during spring time. As always take only pictures and leave only foot prints, remember LNT principles.

White River FS Reports Take Exit 180 from I-70 for East Vail. If traveling eastbound, turn right at the bottom
of off-ramp. If traveling westbound, turn left at the bottom of the off ramp. Continue east down Bighorn
Road almost to the end, approximately 2.5 miles. The trailhead is on the left before you reach the Gore
Creek campground. Parking is limited. Please park at the trailhead, not at the campground.

Trail Highlights:
The first 4 miles of the trail climbs alongside Gore Creek. There are some short steep
sections along the way. The trail winds through meadows and aspen groves which change to conifer
stands as the elevation increases. At mile 4, the trail forks; straight ahead goes over Red Buffalo Pass
to Summit County, the left fork goes to Gore Lake. From the fork, the trail climbs though spruce and fir
forest into the alpine tundra to Gore Lake. The trail is steeper in this section.

Attractions:
A short hike along Gore Creek can provide pleasant picnic spots or great fishing
opportunities. This trail is one of the most popular in the Eagle's Nest wilderness. Please help lessen
the impact of humans in this area by packing out your trash and trash that has been left by others. If
you plan on camping overnight at the lake, please use a backpacking stove - there is little wood left in
the vicinity.

Important Information: Gore Creek is in the Eagles Nest Wilderness. Wilderness is for your
use and enjoyment, but you have an obligation to leave it unimpaired for future generations. Please
understand your responsibilities when visiting these special places. Leave them as you wish to find
them:
* Camping - camp at least 100 feet from streams, lakes, and trails
* Dogs - must be leashed out of consideration for both other people and wildlife
* Fire - camp stoves are recommended and fires are prohibited at and above timberline
* Group size - limit group sizes to 15 people
* Sanitation - bury human waste 100 feet from water and 6 inches in the soil

One-Way NoticeThis hike is listed as One-Way.

When hiking several trails on a single "hike", log it with a generic name that describes the hike. Then link the trails traveled, check out the example.

WARNING! Hiking and outdoor related sports can be dangerous. Be responsible and prepare for the trip. Study the area you are entering and plan accordingly. Dress for the current and unexpected weather changes. Take plenty of water. Never go alone. Make an itinerary with your plan(s), route(s), destination(s) and expected return time. Give your itinerary to trusted family and/or friends.

Permit $$

None

Directions

Map Drive

or

Road

Paved - Car Okay

To hikeDriving East or West on I-70 take the East Vail exit and continue driving East on Bighorn Rd till it passes under I-70 and the trailhead parking will be on your left.